Metaline Falls sits in the far northeastern corner of Washington State, where the Pend Oreille River cuts through forested mountains just nine miles from the Canadian border. This small town and its immediate surroundings offer a quiet base for exploring dramatic river scenery, historic mining sites, and little-traveled wilderness without the crowds that fill more famous Pacific Northwest destinations.
This guide explains what to see and do in Metaline Falls, how to reach this remote location, what the practical considerations are for visiting, and how to make the most of your time in this corner of Washington.
What Is Metaline Falls and Why Visit?
Metaline Falls is a small community of fewer than 250 residents located along the Pend Oreille River in Pend Oreille County, Washington. Visitors come for river access, nearby Gardner Cave in Crawford State Park, scenic drives through the Selkirk Mountains, and the historic atmosphere of a former lead and zinc mining town that retains original early-20th-century buildings and a quiet, unhurried character.
Getting to Metaline Falls
Metaline Falls lies approximately 90 miles north of Spokane, Washington, the nearest major city with an international airport. From Spokane, you drive north on US Highway 2 to Newport, then follow State Route 20 north along the Pend Oreille River through Usk and continuing to Metaline Falls.
The drive takes roughly two hours under normal conditions. The roads are paved and maintained year-round, though winter weather can bring snow and ice that require appropriate tires and caution.
There is no public transit serving Metaline Falls. You need a personal vehicle or rental car to reach the town and explore the surrounding areas.
How Much Time to Spend
A brief visit to see Gardner Cave and drive through town can fit into half a day if you’re passing through the region. Most visitors who make the drive from Spokane or other distant points spend at least one full day to justify the travel time.
Two to three days allow you to explore the cave, hike several trails, paddle or fish the river, visit nearby Boundary Dam, and experience the quiet pace without feeling rushed. The area suits travelers looking for a low-key, nature-focused visit rather than those seeking dining variety, nightlife, or extensive amenities.
Gardner Cave
Gardner Cave in Crawford State Park is the primary attraction drawing visitors to Metaline Falls. At 1,055 feet, it is Washington’s third-longest limestone cave and features stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone formations, and cool underground chambers that stay around 40 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
The cave is accessible only by guided tour, which ranger-led tours typically offer from late May through September, depending on staffing and conditions. Tours last approximately 45 minutes to an hour and involve walking on uneven surfaces, climbing steps, and navigating narrow passages in low light, so reasonable mobility is required.
Before visiting, confirm current tour schedules and availability with Washington State Parks, as tour times and frequency can vary by season and year. Reservations may be required or recommended during busy summer weekends.
The cave entrance sits about three miles from the main highway on a steep, winding access road that climbs roughly 1,100 feet in elevation. The road is narrow and requires careful driving but is suitable for standard passenger vehicles in dry conditions.
What to Bring for the Cave
Temperatures inside Gardner Cave remain cold regardless of outside weather, so bring a jacket or fleece even on hot summer days. Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction, as cave floors can be damp and slippery.
Photography is permitted, but the low light inside the cave means most smartphone cameras struggle without additional lighting. Bringing a small flashlight can help you see details the ranger points out during the tour.
The Town and Its History
Metaline Falls developed in the early 1900s around lead and zinc mining operations that operated until the late 20th century. The Cutter Theatre, built in 1937, remains a centerpiece of the small downtown and hosts occasional live performances and community events.
Several historic buildings line the main street, giving the town a preserved early-century character. There are no major museums or formal historic tours, but walking the few blocks of downtown takes only a few minutes and offers a glimpse of the town’s mining past.
Services in town are limited to one or two small cafes, a market, and basic lodging. The town functions more as a quiet residential community than a tourist center, so plan accordingly and bring supplies if you have specific needs.
Outdoor Activities Near Metaline Falls
The Pend Oreille River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The river flows relatively gently through this section, suitable for flatwater paddling rather than whitewater rafting.
Fishing targets species including trout, bass, and walleye, but you need a valid Washington State fishing license and must follow current regulations for the river. Check with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for seasons, limits, and any special rules.
Hiking Options
Several trails in the surrounding Colville National Forest offer forest and mountain scenery. The Flume Creek Trail and trails near Sullivan Lake, roughly 30 minutes east of Metaline Falls, provide options ranging from easy lakeside walks to steeper mountain routes.
Trail conditions, accessibility, and seasonal closures vary, so contact the Colville National Forest ranger district for current information before setting out. Some trails may be snow-covered or muddy in spring and early summer.
Boundary Dam
Boundary Dam, located about five miles north of Metaline Falls on the Pend Oreille River, is a hydroelectric facility and the northernmost dam on the river. A visitor center operated by Seattle City Light offers interpretive displays about hydroelectric power and the local environment, though hours and availability should be confirmed in advance.
The area around the dam provides river views and a chance to see how the dam has shaped the local landscape. The drive to the dam follows scenic riverside roads and can be combined with a visit to Gardner Cave in a single day.
Where to Stay
Lodging options in Metaline Falls itself are very limited, typically one small motel or inn. The nearby town of Metaline, just a couple of miles south, may offer additional options, but choices remain sparse.
Many visitors stay in Ione, about 15 miles south, where a few more motels and inns are available, or in Newport, roughly 40 miles south, which has a broader selection of chain hotels and services. Sullivan Lake, about 20 miles east, offers a campground with sites suitable for tents and RVs, managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
If you prefer camping, contact the Colville National Forest for information on campground availability, reservation requirements, fees, and seasonal operating dates. Some sites are first-come, first-served, while others may be reservable through Recreation.gov.
Food and Dining
Dining options in Metaline Falls are minimal. Expect one or two casual cafes or diners offering simple breakfast and lunch menus, with limited or no dinner service.
For more variety, you’ll need to drive to Ione or farther south to Newport. Bringing snacks, drinks, and groceries with you is advisable, especially if you have dietary restrictions or are staying multiple days.
When to Visit
The main visitor season runs from late spring through early fall, roughly May through September, when Gardner Cave tours operate and weather is warmest. Summer temperatures typically range from the 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit during the day, with cooler evenings.
Winter brings cold temperatures, snow, and shorter daylight hours. The cave closes to tours, and some forest roads and trails may be inaccessible or require snow equipment.
Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures for hiking, though cave tour availability may be limited or nonexistent outside the peak summer season. Always check current conditions and service availability before traveling during shoulder seasons.
Practical Considerations
Cell phone coverage in Metaline Falls and the surrounding area can be spotty or nonexistent, depending on your carrier. Plan accordingly and do not rely on mobile navigation or communication in remote areas.
Fuel, ATM access, and medical services are limited in Metaline Falls. The nearest hospital is in Newport, about 40 miles south, so fill your gas tank, carry cash, and bring any necessary medications or first-aid supplies.
The remoteness of the area means you should prepare for self-sufficiency, especially if hiking or camping. Carry a map, extra water, food, and layers for changing weather.
Who Will Enjoy Metaline Falls
Metaline Falls appeals most to travelers seeking quiet, off-the-beaten-path destinations with a focus on natural scenery and outdoor activities. If you enjoy exploring caves, gentle river recreation, forest hiking, and small-town atmosphere without tourist infrastructure, this area fits well.
The town is not suitable for visitors expecting resort amenities, diverse dining, nightlife, shopping, or extensive accessibility accommodations. The distance from major cities and limited services make it less convenient for travelers on tight schedules or those who prefer more developed destinations.
Nearby Extensions
If you’re making the long drive to Metaline Falls, consider extending your trip to include nearby destinations. Sullivan Lake, about 20 miles east, offers additional camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities in a scenic mountain setting.
The Salmo-Priest Wilderness, further east, provides backcountry hiking for experienced and well-prepared wilderness travelers. The international border crossing to Canada is only nine miles north of Metaline Falls, allowing you to extend your trip into British Columbia if you have the necessary travel documents and meet current entry requirements.
Always verify passport, visa, customs, and health requirements with official government sources before attempting any international crossing, as rules change and vary by nationality.
Planning Your Visit
Before traveling to Metaline Falls, confirm Gardner Cave tour schedules with Washington State Parks, check campground availability if camping, verify fuel and lodging options, and review current road and trail conditions with the Colville National Forest. Download maps and directions before you leave areas with reliable cell service.
Bringing adequate supplies, a full tank of gas, and realistic expectations about services and amenities will help you enjoy this remote corner of Washington. The area rewards travelers who appreciate quiet, natural beauty and are comfortable with limited infrastructure.
We hope this guide helps you plan a visit to Metaline Falls that matches your interests and travel style, and we encourage you to explore more helpful Tourist Destination articles as you continue planning your adventures.